Kawasaki GPZ305

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Kawasaki GPZ305 was a 306cc twin cylinder air-cooled SOHC four-stroke motorcycle, produced from 1983 until 1994 by Kawasaki in Japan. The model evolved from the earlier Z250 model and used an overbored (61mm x 52.4mm) version of the 249cc engine first produced in 1979.Kawasaki gave this model the 'Gpz nomemclature to add to its expanding aircooled sports bike range, and was marketed as a sports machine. It originally was offered with chain final drive but in 1984 it gained the new kevlar belt final drive first seen on Kawasaki's American styled cruisers (Z440LTD etc,)which helped increase sales due to its low maintenance needs.

It had a 17 litre tank, and red-lined at 11,500 rpm.Its small 'bikini'style nose fairing and one piece clocks gave it an edge over the other commuter styled bikes of the time and the 'uni-trak' rear suspension added to the allure of the smallest Gpzs. Most exhausts and tanks were of rapidly rusting quality metal, but in the bikes favour, it could exceed 100 mph, and normally gave over 70 mpg if not pushed. The tank capacity, speed and fuel economy made it popular with couriers.

The GPZ305 was a highly reliable motorcycle in most cases, but had one problematic feature: the oil pump was driven by a flimsy nylon cog that was prone to failure. When the cog failed, the cylinder head became starved of oil, leading to seizure. Owners were advised to replace this cog regularly. Additionally, the belt-drive was not indestructible, and could eventually lead to complete failure.^{[citation needed]}

It was available with a 250cc engine as the Kawasaki Scorpion, but came in a different colour scheme.